New Ways with Catfish

Louisiana waters are blessed with an abundance of fresh seafood, including a Southern favorite, the humble catfish. Throughout the year, catfish can be caught in ponds, streams, lakes, and rivers from north to south Louisiana. Many seafood restaurants have become well-known for their crispy fried catfish, and though it’s tough to beat a plate piled high with some good old-fashioned fried catfish, there are even more ways to savor this flaky fish. Whether it’s blackened and served po’ boy-style, wrapped in bacon and cooked until crispy, or poached in buttermilk and served over fluffy rice, you’re sure to love these new catfish recipes.

SMOKED CATFISH DIP

MAKES 2 CUPS

In this recipe, we infused catfish with bold flavor by smoking it on the stove.

¾ cup apple wood chips (4 ounces)
1½ teaspoons lemon zest
½ teaspoon kosher salt,